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Long Island NY Murder Charge Defense Lawyer

Experienced Criminal Defense

Being accused of murder is a very serious matter in the state of New York. If convicted, you could face life in prison. You may feel as if you have nowhere to turn, but you do have options. Our murder defense lawyer in Long Island can help you fight your charges and protect your rights. We are prepared to take your case to trial.

To have the best chance of winning your case, it is important to hire an attorney with the right experience. At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we have been protecting the rights of clients for over two decades. Our firm has a history of success and we have helped many clients. We are ready to put our skills and experience to work for you.

Charged with murder? Call our Long Island murder defense lawyer at (631) 714-7894 or contact us online today.

What Is Murder in New York?

The state of New York defines murder as the intentional killing of another person without justification or excuse. This crime is divided into degrees, with first-degree murder being the most serious. If convicted of first-degree murder, you could face life in prison without parole.

Intentional murder is the most serious charge and involves a premeditated plan to kill someone or a willful and depraved indifference to human life. You may be charged with this crime if you kill a person while committing another felony, such as robbery or kidnapping. You may also face this charge if you kill a law enforcement officer, a witness, a correctional officer, or a court official while they are performing their duties.

Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of another person without intent to do so. This charge involves an unintentional killing that results from recklessness or criminal negligence. You may be charged with manslaughter if you cause someone’s death while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or while operating a vehicle recklessly.

What Are the Penalties for Murder?

The consequences of a murder conviction are severe and life-altering. You may be forced to spend the rest of your life in prison, pay large fines, and have a permanent criminal record. Even if you are acquitted of murder charges, you may still have to deal with the consequences of being charged with the crime. These consequences can make it difficult to find housing, employment, and gain access to education and other services.

The penalties for murder will depend on the circumstances of the case and the degree of murder involved. The penalties for first-degree murder are the harshest and include life in prison without the possibility of parole. You may also face fines and restitution to the victim’s family.

Why Hire Our Firm for Your Murder Defense?

The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C. has extensive experience with violent crimes and we are ready to put our skills to work for you. Our murder defense lawyer in Long Island has handled a wide range of cases. We understand what it takes to build a strong defense and we are ready to take your case to trial.

Our Long Island murder defense lawyer has handled many cases and has:

  • Over two decades of experience
  • Won dismissals and acquittals for clients
  • Extensive knowledge of New York’s violent crime laws

Contact Our Firm Today

If you are facing murder charges, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Without an attorney, you could face severe consequences. With an attorney, you could have your charges dismissed or reduced. Our firm is ready to put our experience and skills to work for you.

FAQ

Q1: How does New York define murder, and what are the different degrees?

In New York, murder is defined as the intentional killing of another person without justification or legal excuse. First-degree murder, the most serious charge, involves a premeditated plan to kill someone, killing a law enforcement officer or court official in the line of duty, or causing a death during the commission of another serious felony, such as robbery or kidnapping. Second-degree murder involves the intentional killing of another person without premeditation, or a killing that demonstrates a depraved indifference to human life. The degree of murder charged has a direct impact on the severity of the penalties you may face.

Q2: What is the difference between murder and manslaughter in New York?

While both murder and manslaughter involve the death of another person, the critical distinction lies in intent and the mental state of the accused. Murder involves either premeditation or a deliberate, willful act, whereas manslaughter involves an unintentional killing that results from recklessness or criminal negligence. For example, causing a fatal accident while driving under the influence could lead to a manslaughter charge rather than murder. Understanding this distinction is essential to mounting an effective defense, and an experienced Long Island murder defense attorney can evaluate the specific facts of your case to determine the most appropriate legal strategy.

A conviction for first-degree murder in New York carries the most severe penalty available under state law: life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. A second-degree murder conviction typically results in a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. Even beyond incarceration, a murder conviction results in a permanent felony record, potential financial penalties, and lasting consequences that affect every aspect of a person’s life, including employment, housing, and personal relationships. These stakes make it essential to retain an experienced murder defense attorney from the very beginning of your case.

Q4: What defenses are available to someone charged with murder on Long Island?

Several defense strategies may be applicable depending on the facts and evidence in your case. Common defenses include establishing self-defense or defense of others, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, demonstrating that you lacked the intent required for a murder charge, or arguing misidentification. In some cases, your attorney may pursue a reduced charge, such as manslaughter, if the facts do not support the level of intent required for a murder conviction. Attorney Scott Gross brings over two decades of legal experience, including his background as a former prosecutor, to bear in building the most effective defense strategy for each unique case.

Q5: Why is it so important to hire an attorney immediately after being charged with murder?

Murder is one of the most serious charges a person can face in New York, and the prosecution will waste no time building a case against you. The sooner you retain legal representation, the sooner your attorney can begin investigating the circumstances of your arrest, preserving critical evidence, and challenging the prosecution’s narrative. Waiting too long to hire an attorney can result in lost evidence, missed procedural opportunities, and a weaker overall defense. The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C. is available 24/7 to respond immediately when you need help the most, and is prepared to take your case all the way to trial if necessary.

 

Written By Scott Gross

Scott Gross is the founder and lead criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Scott Gross. In 2006, Mr. Gross was appointed as an Assistant District Attorney in Suffolk County, New York. Scott Gross has handled thousands of criminal cases at all levels, many of which were high-profile matters followed by various media outlets. Because of his experience in Suffolk County, Mr. Gross is highly-skilled in defense trial techniques and rules of evidence for individuals facing criminal charges.

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